Picture a storyteller who turned the gritty streets of 1970s New York City into a thrilling stage for mysteries—meet Rich Zahradnik! An American author with a knack for blending historical grit with pulse-pounding suspense, Zahradnik’s Coleridge Taylor Mystery series has captivated readers and critics alike. His debut novel, Last Words, introduced a dogged newsman navigating a city on the brink of collapse, earning awards and a loyal following.
With over 30 years as a journalist, Zahradnik brings authenticity to his tales of crime and corruption. His vivid portrayal of a decaying yet vibrant New York, paired with a reporter’s relentless pursuit of truth, makes his work a must-read for mystery lovers. Ready to dive into his world? Let’s explore the life and legacy of this master storyteller!
The Making of Rich Zahradnik
Born in Poughkeepsie, New York, Rich Zahradnik grew up with a front-row seat to the transformative 1970s. He earned a B.A. in journalism and political science from George Washington University, laying the foundation for a decades-long career in news. From reporting for major outlets like CNN, Bloomberg News, and The Hollywood Reporter to editing at Fox Business Network, Zahradnik honed a sharp eye for detail and a passion for uncovering stories—skills that shine in his fiction.
After 27 years in journalism, Zahradnik turned to novels, channeling his love for storytelling into the Coleridge Taylor Mystery series. Inspired by the era’s raw energy and his own experiences in newsrooms, he crafted a world where truth is hard-won, and every scoop comes with danger. His transition from reporter to novelist feels like a natural evolution, fueled by a lifelong love of mysteries, from the Hardy Boys to gritty crime fiction.
Rich Zahradnik’s Unforgettable Stories
Zahradnik’s Coleridge Taylor Mystery series is a love letter to 1970s New York, capturing its financial woes, punk rock pulse, and simmering tensions. The series kicks off with Last Words (2014), where reporter Coleridge Taylor investigates a teen’s death amid a city teetering on bankruptcy. Praised for its vivid setting and taut pacing, it won a bronze medal in the 2015 IPPY Awards and an honorable mention from Foreword Reviews.
The series continues with Drop Dead Punk (2015), a gold medalist in the 2016 IPPY Awards, diving into a murky cop killing that unravels a web of betrayal. A Black Sail (2016), set during the U.S. Bicentennial, tackles a drug war with Taylor dodging mobsters and tongs, earning the 2017 Next Generation Indie Book Award for best mystery. The series caps with Lights Out Summer (2017), a Shamus Award winner, where Taylor probes a murder against the backdrop of the 1977 blackout and Son of Sam’s terror.
Zahradnik’s style blends meticulous research with cinematic pacing, painting New York as a character—grimy, chaotic, and alive. His protagonist, Taylor, is a hard-drinking, truth-obsessed reporter, evoking classic noir with a modern edge. Themes of justice, corruption, and resilience resonate, making each book a thrilling time capsule.
Why Rich Zahradnik Matters
Zahradnik’s work stands out for its unflinching look at a pivotal era, blending historical accuracy with gripping storytelling. His series not only entertains but also preserves the spirit of 1970s New York—its struggles, sounds, and soul. Critics and readers praise his ability to make Coleridge Taylor a relatable hero, one who fights for the underdog in a world of crooked cops and shady elites.
Beyond fiction, Zahradnik’s impact extends to education. Living in Pelham, New York, with his wife Sheri and son Patrick, he teaches kids to publish newspapers, guiding the Pelham Examiner, a youth-run community paper. His journalism roots and mentorship show a commitment to storytelling in all forms, cementing his legacy as a writer and educator.
- Born: Poughkeepsie, New York
- Key Works: Last Words, Drop Dead Punk, A Black Sail, Lights Out Summer
- Awards: Shamus Award (2018), IPPY Awards (2015, 2016), Next Generation Indie Book Award (2017)
- Fun Fact: Zahradnik once owned a newspaper in Peekskill, New York!
Snag Last Words and dive into Rich Zahradnik’s thrilling mysteries! Whether you’re a fan of crime fiction or just love a good story, his New York adventures will keep you hooked.